OUR ORIGIN STORY

Origin of MOVE37XR: A Journey of Creativity and Decentralized Culture

In 2017, while teaching at Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Pravin Pillay conceived an idea that would later evolve into MOVE37XR. His course, "Becoming Human: Creativity, Technology, and the Evolution of Decentralized Culture," inspired the concept of a decentralized creative studio and research lab where art, technology, and human connection could intersect in innovative ways. This was the seed that would eventually grow into the transformative arts collective known as MOVE37XR.

Development at MIT: A Vision Takes Shape

By 2020, Pillay's vision had found a new direction at MIT’s Center for Organizational Learning - Presencing Institute. Here, he refined his ideas into the Transformative Arts and Culture Exploratorium (TACE), a bold initiative aimed at enhancing bioregional well-being through collaborative, interdisciplinary projects. This was the beginning of a movement that sought to integrate technology and culture, promoting a decentralized approach to creativity.

Collaborations and Support: Building Momentum

In 2021, TACE, in collaboration with partners from the Pacific Northwest, Dubai, and the UK, was selected for further development at MIT’s Ulab 2x, Presencing Institute. The project was awarded a ParTeck seed grant from the Human Data Commons Foundation (HDC), a Vancouver-based non-profit focused on integrating technology, ethics, and consciousness. This grant enabled Pillay and his team to push the boundaries of innovation.

Investment in XR Studio: A Leap Forward

Later in 2021, Pillay's company, Emergent Performance Consulting Ltd, received a COVID Recovery Grant from the Canadian Government. This funding was crucial in establishing an XR research studio, building on the MIT research. The studio became a hub for exploring the potential of extended reality (XR) technologies to create immersive and impactful experiences.

Formation of MOVE37XR: A Collective is Born

Under the guidance of Sandra Semchuk, Pillay officially founded MOVE37XR Arts Collective in 2021. Leveraging his extensive network in art and technology, Pillay brought together a diverse group of creatives. The collective hosted virtual reality artist salons, attracting award-winning artists from Canada and the United States. MOVE37XR quickly became a vibrant community where innovation and creativity thrived.

Key Connections and Early Successes

In early 2022, a collaboration with Dr. Brad Necyk and John Desnoyers-Stewart from iSpace lab at SFU marked a significant step for MOVE37XR. This partnership blended technology and the arts in new ways, leading to monthly VR salons that drew professional creators throughout the winter. MOVE37XR was rapidly gaining recognition as a leader at the intersection of art and technology.

Soft Launch in Vancouver: A Milestone Event

Despite a snowstorm, the soft launch of MOVE37XR in Vancouver in February 2023 was a success. Artists and engineers gathered to brainstorm on interactive and XR technologies, setting the stage for future projects. The event demonstrated the collective's resilience and innovative spirit.

SXSW Collaboration: A Vision for Global Impact

In March 2023, at SXSW, Pillay and Carol Anne Hilton of the Global Center of Indigenomics (GCOI) envisioned a groundbreaking collaboration. This led to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop a Global Indigenous Technology House, a concept that quickly gained support from Canadian institutions. This collaboration signaled MOVE37XR’s commitment to uplifting and empowering Indigenous communities through technology.

Expansion and New Projects: Growing Influence

By mid-2023, MOVE37XR had hosted successful XR creative jams with founding member artists such as Ruby Singh and developed a mobile immersive theater. Noting its potential for positive cultural change, Dr. James Orbinski suggested transforming the collective into a formal NGO. This marked a turning point, as MOVE37XR expanded its influence and took on new, ambitious projects.

Advisory Support and NGO Formation: A New Era

In 2023, esteemed advisors like Nettie Wild, Sandra Semchuk, Kim Haxton, Joel and Michelle Levey joined MOVE37XR, offering invaluable guidance. The organization was officially registered as a Federal Not-for-Profit in Canada, with Dr. James Orbinksi and Carol Anne Hilton as founding Board members. This formalization marked a new era for MOVE37XR, solidifying its status as a leader in digital arts and culture.

Public Engagement and Future Projects: Expanding Horizons

In late 2023, Pillay was invited by the City of Victoria Art and Culture to share insights on XR technologies. This led to MOVE37XR being commissioned for the City of Victoria’s Winter Arts Festival and approached to develop an XR experience for the Design Victoria Festival. MOVE37XR was becoming a key player in the broader cultural landscape.

Recognition by Canada Council for the Arts: A Major Milestone

In February 2024, MOVE37XR achieved a significant milestone when recognized by the Canada Council for the Arts as a Digital Arts Organization. This recognition marked the culmination of years of vision, collaboration, and creativity, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the future. Through every challenge and opportunity, MOVE37XR has remained true to its mission: exploring the transformative potential of technology in the arts and fostering a decentralized, collaborative culture that enhances well-being and inspires positive change.